[2023 GUIDE] Top 15 Maui Hikes & Trails

Maui is home to some of the world’s most beautiful and diverse hiking trails. From the lush rainforests of the West Maui Mountains to the stunning coastline of the Hana Highway, there is a trail for every type of hiker. From leisurely strolls through the bamboo forests to challenging summits with breathtaking views, the best Maui hikes offer something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a beginner looking to explore the island’s natural beauty, these trails are sure to impress.

What Part of Maui has the Best Hiking?

Maui is home to many hiking trails, and the best part of the island for hiking will depend on your interests and ability level. The island is divided into several regions, each with its own unique natural beauty and hiking opportunities. Here are a few of the best regions for hiking on Maui:

1. West Maui: The West Maui Mountains are home to a number of beautiful hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls through the bamboo forests to challenging summits with breathtaking views. The Makawao Forest Reserve and the West Maui Forest Reserve are great places to start.
2. East Maui: The eastern part of the island is home to Haleakala National Park, which offers a number of challenging and rewarding hikes, including the Sliding Sands Trail and the Pipiwai Trail.
3. Central Maui: The central region of the island is home to the ‘Iao Valley State Monument, a beautiful and easily accessible valley with a variety of hiking trails.
4. South Maui: The south part of the island is home to Wailea and Makena, which offer a number of easy, scenic coastal hikes along the Hana Highway.

Overall, the best part of Maui for hiking will depend on your interests and ability level and the time of year you visit. Some trails may be more challenging or strenuous than others, and it is important to be prepared and properly equipped before embarking on any hike.

The 15 Best Hiking Trails in Maui

1. Waihe’e Ridge Trail

This moderate 5-mile out-and-back trail is located in Wailuku, on the island of Maui. The trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you will encounter a variety of native Hawaiian plants and possibly some wildlife, such as goats and pigs. The trail can be steep and rocky in places, and it is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.

2. Haleakala Crater

This 10-mile round trip hike takes you to the summit of Haleakala, a dormant volcano that towers over the island of Maui. The trail begins at the visitor center and winds its way through a cinder desert before reaching the summit at 10,023 feet. The hike can be strenuous due to the high elevation, and it is important to be properly acclimated before attempting it. The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort.

3. ‘Iao Valley State Monument

This short, easy 1.5-mile round trip hike is located in central Maui and takes you through a lush, verdant valley with towering cliffs and a winding stream. Along the way, you will see native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The highlight of the trail is the ‘Iao Needle, a dramatic pinnacle of rock that towers over the valley. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for most hikers.

4. Twin Falls

Located on the island of Maui, this easy 2-mile round-trip hike takes you to a series of waterfalls and swimming holes. The trail follows a stream through the lush rainforest, and you may spot some native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds along the way. The waterfalls and swimming holes are great places to cool off on a hot day. The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for most hikers.

5. Wai’anapanapa State Park

This easy 1-mile round trip hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to a beautiful black sand beach. Along the way, you will see a variety of native Hawaiian plants and possibly some wildlife, such as birds and crabs. The trail is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it suitable for most hikers. The black sand beach is a unique and picturesque spot to relax and enjoy stunning views.

6. Makawao Forest Reserve

This moderate 3-mile loop hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you through a lush rainforest with towering trees and a variety of native Hawaiian plants. Along the way, you may spot some birds and other wildlife. The trail can be muddy and slippery in places, so it is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and watch your step. The loop takes you to a series of waterfalls, which are great places to cool off on a hot day.

7. Hana Highway

This long, challenging hike takes you along the winding Hana Highway, which stretches for over 50 miles along the eastern coast of Maui. The hike can be tailored to your fitness level, and numerous trails and points of interest are along the way. Some highlights include the Wailua Falls, the ‘Ohe’o Gulch, and the Ka’eleku Caverns. The hike can be strenuous due to the rugged terrain and the hot, humid climate, so it is important to be properly prepared and equipped.

8. West Maui Forest Reserve

This moderate 3-mile loop hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you through a lush rainforest with towering trees and various native Hawaiian plants. Along the way, you may spot some birds and other wildlife. The trail can be muddy and slippery in places, so it is recommended to wear sturdy shoes and watch your step. The loop takes you to a series of waterfalls, which are great places to cool off on a hot day.

9. Kaupo Gap

This strenuous 8-mile out-and-back hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to the Kaupo Gap, a pass through the East Maui Mountains. The hike begins at the Paliku Cabin and follows a rocky, uneven trail through a dense rainforest. Along the way, you may spot some native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The views from the gap are breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This hike is not for the faint of heart and is recommended only for experienced hikers in good physical condition.

10. Kipahulu

This moderate 4-mile out-and-back hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park. The hike begins at the visitor center and follows a rocky, uneven trail through lush rainforest. Along the way, you may spot some native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The highlight of the hike is the Kipahulu Valley, a stunning green oasis with waterfalls, pools, and a variety of plants and wildlife. The hike can be strenuous in places, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and wear sturdy shoes.

11. Pipiwai Trail

This moderate 4-mile round trip hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to the Waimoku Falls, a stunning 400-foot waterfall in Haleakala National Park. The trail begins at the Kipahulu Visitor Center and follows a rocky, uneven path through lush rainforest. Along the way, you will see a variety of native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The trail can be strenuous in places with steep inclines and rocky sections, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and wear sturdy shoes.

12. Waikamoi Ridge Trail

This moderate 5-mile out-and-back hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you through a dense rainforest with a variety of native Hawaiian plants. The trail begins at the Kipahulu Visitor Center and follows a rocky, uneven path through the forest. Along the way, you may spot some birds and other wildlife. The views from the ridge are breathtaking, with a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the Pacific Ocean. This hike is not for the faint of heart and is recommended only for experienced hikers in good physical condition.

13. White Rock

This moderate 2-mile out-and-back hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to White Rock, a stunning cliff with panoramic views of the surrounding coastline. The trail begins at the parking area and follows a rocky, uneven path to the cliff. Along the way, you may spot some native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The views from the cliff are breathtaking, and it is a great place to take in the sunset. The hike can be strenuous in places, so it is recommended to be in good physical condition and wear sturdy shoes.

14. La Perouse Bay

This easy 2-mile out-and-back hike is located on the island of Maui and takes you to La Perouse Bay, a stunning bay with crystal clear water and various marine life. The trail begins at the parking area and follows a flat, well-maintained path to the bay. Along the way, you may spot some native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The bay is a great place to swim, snorkel, or relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

15. Sliding Sands Trail

This strenuous 11-mile round trip hike is located in Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui and takes you to the summit of Haleakala. This dormant volcano towers over the island. The trail begins at the visitor center and follows a rocky, uneven path through a cinder desert to the summit at 10,023 feet. The hike can be strenuous due to the high elevation and the rugged terrain, and it is important to be properly acclimated before attempting it. The views from the top are breathtaking and well worth the effort.

What is the Best Waterfall Hike in Maui?

There are several waterfall hikes on the island of Maui that are worth considering. Some of the best waterfall hikes on Maui include:

1. Twin Falls: This easy 2-mile round-trip hike takes you to a series of waterfalls and swimming holes in the lush rainforests of East Maui. The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for most hikers.
2. Makawao Forest Reserve: This moderate 3-mile loop hike takes you through lush rainforest with towering trees and various native Hawaiian plants. Along the way, you may spot some birds and other wildlife. The loop takes you to a series of waterfalls, which are great places to cool off on a hot day.
3. Waimoku Falls: This moderate 4-mile round trip hike takes you to the Waimoku Falls, a stunning 400-foot waterfall in Haleakala National Park. The trail begins at the Kipahulu Visitor Center and follows a rocky, uneven path through lush rainforest. Along the way, you will see a variety of native Hawaiian plants and possibly some birds. The trail can be strenuous in places with steep inclines and rocky sections, so it is recommended to be in the good physical condition and wear sturdy shoes.
4. Wailua Falls: This easy 1-mile round trip hike takes you to Wailua Falls, a beautiful 80-foot waterfall located on the Hana Highway. The trail is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it suitable for most hikers.

Overall, the best waterfall hike on Maui will depend on your interests and ability level, and the time of year you visit. Some trails may be more challenging or strenuous than others, and it is important to be prepared and properly equipped before embarking on any hike.